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Kerry’s championing WorkSkills course

A FORMER Richard Huish College student has praised the course which aims to get youngsters back to work and offer vital training.

Kerry Glen, 23, suffered panic attacks and depression and, as a result, dropped out of school at the age of 16.

But she has seen her life turned around in the last 18 months after winning the European Social Fund Individual Award for the South West – all of which, she says, was possible thanks to the free work skills course at the Taunton-based college.

The WorkSkills course is designed to help people who aren’t currently in education, training or employment to learn essential skills that could lead to much better prospects.

Kerry has gone from being a victim of mental illness to just about ready to complete her level one certificate in mental health Awareness at Aberdeen College.

As well as completing a three-mile Race For Life in Dundee and receiving the European Social Fund Individual Award from ex- England and Somerset cricketer Andy Caddick and Mark Yeoman, European Social Fund, she also received a framed certificate and a £200 voucher to contribute to continued learning.

Kerry said: “It was nice to have some recognition for all the work I have done over the last year.

“Work Skills has given me my independence back and shown me that I am stronger than my problems. If I had not done the course, I would still be where I was at home.

“I’d now like to work somewhere I can use my personal experience to help others who need support.”